'Areas of concern' prompt more COVID-19 testing sites in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia Health is increasing testing capacity across the province in response to several clusters of cases outside of the central zone that so far have no identified source of infection.

The "areas of concern" are Sydney, Bridgewater, and the Annapolis Valley from New Minas to Kentville, according to a news release from the health authority.

Increased testing in these areas will help determine where COVID-19 is, and if and how it's spreading. More options for testing in these communities will be added as needed, the release said.

Western Zone

Three testing locations have been added in the western health zone, all of them by appointment only. You can book a COVID-19 test on the self-assessment website or by contacting 811.

• Acadia Festival Theatre at 504 Main St., Wolfville, seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Berwick Fire Hall at 300 Commercial St., Berwick, seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This location is by appointment only.

• 210 Aberdeen Rd., Bridgewater, seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. This location is by appointment only.

Eastern Zone

Three testing locations have been added in the eastern health zone, including two with gargle testing for children and youth. Some locations are drop-in only and others require an appointment.

• Centre 200 at 481 George St., Sydney, will reopen this week. Dates and times have not yet been confirmed. This is a rapid testing site and is drop-in only. It's for people 16 and older who are asymptomatic and have a low exposure risk.

• GLR Fire Hall at 850 Grand Lake Rd., Sydney, seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. NOTE: this location reopens on Monday, May 17. This location accepts drop-ins and pre-booked appointments. Testing at this location is for anyone of any age, regardless of whether they have any COVID symptoms, have travelled or been to an exposure site. Gargle tests are available for ages 4 to 18.

• Antigonish Market square at 149 Church St., Antigonish, seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. This location accepts pre-booked appointments only. Testing at this location is for anyone of any age, regardless of whether they have any COVID symptoms, have travelled or been to an exposure site. Gargle tests are available for ages 4 to 18.

• Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre at 606 Reeves St., Port Hawkesbury, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This location accepts pre-booked appointments only. Testing at this location is for anyone of any age, regardless of whether they have any COVID symptoms, have travelled or been to an exposure site. Gargle tests are available for ages 4 to 18.

Northern Zone

In response to a low-risk exposure notice in the community, a temporary testing location is opening in Parrsboro next week.

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